Defence is supporting the Republic of Singapore Air Force (RSAF) as it conducts air mobility training from RAAF Base Richmond between 27 April and 4 June 2024. As part of the annual RSAF training, a Singaporean C-130H Hercules transport aircraft and approximately 140 Singaporean personnel are undertaking flying activity including airdrop and parachute operations over western Sydney, the Blue Mountains, and regional New South Wales.
The support of local communities in these areas is greatly appreciated by exercise participants. The training involves day and night flying on weekdays, and flying at low level in airspace and airfields commonly used by RAAF aircraft. There is no planned weekend flying activity. The Australian Defence Force (ADF) will support the exercise with airbase operations support, air traffic control services and other logistical and operational support. ADF jumpers, parachutes, and aircraft will not be involved.
Air Commodore Bradley Clarke, Commander of Air Mobility Group, said the training detachment would allow RAAF and Australian Army members to engage closely with RSAF personnel. “Singaporean C-130 crews deploy to RAAF Base Richmond for this training each year,” Air Commodore Clarke said. “Our support allows us to more easily integrate with Singapore in future, and positively contributes to Singapore’s own security. Singapore has provided air mobility support to Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief operations throughout the region, including to Australia during floods and bushfires.”